"A happy person is not a person in a certain set of circumstances, but rather a person with a certain set of attitudes." ~Hugh Downs
I've had a little talk with myself. Have you ever had to do that? Sure you have! I had to remind myself of some things that I know in my heart are true.
Attending four funerals in three months just isn't right. It stinks. It really does. I'm not even going to try to convince myself otherwise. But I reminded myself tonight there is still reason to celebrate...as strange as that sounds.
I read something (somewhere) a few months ago that has helped. I think it was right after our great niece was killed and I copied and saved it. I wish I could give credit where credit is due, but like a dunce I failed to copy the source. Anyway, here's what they had to say and it's a great way to think:
So, as with most people we miss when they're gone, we start to think of others in our life we've lost. I remember my grandmother and grandfather. When my grandmother passed away my grandfather was, of course, devastated. To make the anniversaries of her death less of a day of mourning, and more of a day of celebrating he announced that every anniversary of her "death" would be a birthday in heaven. The first anniversary was her First Birthday in Heaven. Then her Second Birthday in Heaven. He imagined how wonderful it was for her there, in heaven. Because he loved her so much, where she was (paradise) was much more important on that day than where he was (sad to be without her). You may or may not be helped by thinking about a "heaven," but we can all find it in our hearts to celebrate life, even after someone's gone. They will forever be a part of YOU, of your life's story, and of your now and future as you have been blessed with knowing—and loving—them. I would love to think people could be happy when they think about me after I'm gone. And I'm going to find a way to do that for my friend Rich today. Happy First Birthday in Heaven, Rich.
I don't know who Rich is, but isn't that a nice way to think? I think so.
So....
Madison, Achilles, Carl and Marty Happy first season in Heaven.
You are missed!
Hugs from the beach,
Kat
"Father, please let me be a blessing to someone today."
16 comments:
That is such a wonderful way to think of loved ones ... to celebrate their life, to give thanks that they were (and in our hearts will continue to be) part of our lives. to happy memories.. xo HHL
I will CELEBRATE with you.......
I really like that! It turns the way you think around!
My cousin lost her baby who was 5 and a half months old and would have been 19 this month. Each year I send a card and talk about her short but precious life and we wonder what she would be like now and what she would be doing. It was difficult for me at the time as I was pregnant, my son was born 10 days after Rebcca died and so his birthday is also a marker but we use the time to celebrate.
Helen x
http://acraftykindoftruffle.blogspot.com
Very good thoughts. We do have a lot to celebrate. How wonderful it is that you had these people in your life.
You are such a positive person. You are an example for us all. Last winter, I had three funerals in two weeks, so I know how you are feeling. XOXO
I have had 4 friends to lose a parent within the past month, so I know where you are coming from. I too, think of my loved ones in heaven CELEBRATING with Jesus and that is a comfort!!! And the memories are so special as well. Hugs to you, Kat. You have been through a lot these past few months, but remain your positive, sweet self. You are an inspiration to others. Remember, even though times may seem really tough.... God NEVER gives us more than we can handle and He is ALWAYS there to help us along the way! Love & blessings from NC!
Death is inevitable for each of us. I'm sure that comes as no suprise, but with out death there is no Heaven for us mortals. We do have the choice to be positive. I choose that, it's easier on me and those around me. Pick thru the rubble of things life tosses us everyday and enjoy the treasures!
That was a beautiful post.
My brother, and SIL, always celebrate the passing of our parents on their actual birthday by making their favorite meal. My Mom loved my SIL's tacos..so that is what they have for dinner that evening.
I, on the other hand, have not been able to find a special tradition. I may have to incorporate this idea!
I loved your previous post. I do not know if I could give up wine..100 calories or not!
Lets get together and have the wine, pizza and chocolate..all my favorites!
Shawn
It took me a while to realize this, Kat. That we need to celebrate the time we were given with our loved ones. The most difficult for me is my grandson, Ben. While I thank God he was in our lives for 17 years, the hurt still pounds in my heart especially when I see the look in my daughter's eyes. Thankfully, we are now at least able to talk about him a little. Time. We just need time.
I'm so sorry for your recent losses, but you're right, we need to celebrate what we were given, and not what was taken away. ((hugs))
I LOVE that!!! Thank you so much for posting it. I've got some birthday celebrating to do!
This is a wonderful way to celebrate. Think I will do this with my dad next year this time.
Hello,
I am visiting via Follow Friday 40 and Over! That's the way I think of it. My brother died 1 year ago January and I imagine him there -
I am your newest follower,
Kathy
What a great way to celebrate and honor those we love. After my mom passed I always thought of my grandmother meeting her at the gates of heaven with a cup of coffee! Coffee was her favorite thing! For some reason it made it easier knowing where she was, who she was with and what she was probably enjoying!
Now I like that!!! Good post! No, I take that back... great post!
I love your blog!
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